Subclass 866 Protection visa
People in Australia who engage Australia's protection obligations (refugees and those owed complementary protection).
The Protection visa (subclass 866) is an Australian residence & other visa. This guide covers who the 866 visa is for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025-26 cost (~$45) and processing time (Varies - often long), the pathway to permanent residence, common pitfalls, and frequently asked questions.
Who the 866 visa is for
People in Australia who engage Australia's protection obligations (refugees and those owed complementary protection).
Permanent residence for those found to engage protection obligations after lawful arrival.
Subclass 866 eligibility criteria
- Be in Australia and engage Australia's protection obligations
- Arrived lawfully (different rules apply to unlawful maritime arrivals)
- Meet identity, security, health and character requirements
Subclass 866 cost & processing time (2025-26)
The indicative government visa application charge for the Protection visa (subclass 866) is ~$45, with an indicative processing time of Varies - often long. Figures are for 2025-26 and government charges usually change on 1 July.
| Visa type | Permanent |
|---|---|
| Location | Onshore |
| Length of stay | Permanent |
| Work rights | Unlimited |
| Study rights | Yes |
| Government charge | ~$45 |
| Processing time | Varies - often long |
| Pathway to PR | Permanent residence for those found to engage protection obligations after lawful arrival. |
Pathway & next steps
Permanent residence for those found to engage protection obligations after lawful arrival.
Many applicants also compare the 785 (Temporary Protection visa (TPV)), the 790 (Safe Haven Enterprise visa (SHEV)). Run a free 60-second VisaChief check to see which subclass best fits your profile, then prepare a lodgement-ready application reviewed by a registered migration agent.
Common 866 visa pitfalls we fix
Subclass 866 visa - frequently asked questions
How much does the subclass 866 visa cost?
The Protection visa (subclass 866) base application charge is ~$45. Government charges are indicative for 2025-26 and usually change on 1 July - always confirm the current visa application charge at immi.homeaffairs.gov.au before lodging.
How long does the subclass 866 visa take to process?
Indicative processing time is Varies - often long. Actual timeframes depend on the Department of Home Affairs caseload, how complete your application is, and your individual circumstances.
Does the subclass 866 visa lead to permanent residence?
Permanent residence for those found to engage protection obligations after lawful arrival.
Can I work on the subclass 866 visa?
Work rights on the Protection visa (subclass 866): Unlimited.
Who can apply for the 866 visa?
People in Australia who engage Australia's protection obligations (refugees and those owed complementary protection).
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Australian Government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, charges and processing times change - confirm the current rules before you lodge:
- Department of Home Affairs (immi.homeaffairs.gov.au) - official Australian immigration authority